Abiomed acquires ECP

On July 1, Abiomed, Inc. announced its acquisition of Berlin-based medical device company ECP Entwicklungsgesellschaft mbH (ECP). ECP is in the process of developing a percutaneous catheter pump designed to increase blood circulation up to a flow rate of 4.5 liters a minute through an external drive shaft.

Already a leading provider of heart support technologies, Abiomed will strengthen its position with intellectual property focused on axial and expandable pump capabilities. With the acquisition of ECP, the company will continue to work on providing technologies and strategies for minimally invasive procedures during complex hemodynamic and percutaneous treatment.

Abiomed is known for its invention of the Impella pump, which is one of the smallest cardiac catheters containing the motor and pump inside the body. Thorsten Seiss, the inventor of the Impella device and the chief technology officer of Abiomed says, “The acquisition of ECP will assist in augmenting our existing intellectual property. Our goal is to continuously enhance the Impella platform with technological capabilities that best serve our customers and improve patient care.”

This transaction will also lead Abiomed to acquire all outstanding shares of ECP from Syscore GmbH for approximately $13 million U.S. dollars (USD) in cash. Also, through ECP, Abiomed has acquired AIS GmbH Aachen Innovative Solutions for $2.75 million USD.

Future plans for Abiomed include the potential integration of ECP technology with the Impella platform to create the capability for a more cost efficient and smaller percutaneous technology.

The president and chief executive officer of Abiomed, Michael R. Minogue, states, "As the established leader in percutaneous heart pumps with deep relationships in cardiology, existing regulatory approvals, extensive IP, a solid pipeline and strong cash balance, this acquisition further strengthens our position as the long-term innovator and leader in the field of temporary ventricular assist devices.”